Studio Firing Policies & Drop-Off Guide
Firing ceramics is a precise and time-intensive process requiring careful attention to detail. At RTC, we primarily fire 1265°C + 20 min soak to ensure durable, high-quality results.
To protect your work and our kiln, please carefully read and adhere to the guidelines outlined below before submitting your pieces for firing.
Studio Firing Service
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Step 1: Preparing Your Pieces
Before dropping off your ceramics, ensure the following:
• Bisque Firing: Pieces must be fully bone-dry and clearly marked with a maker’s mark.
• Glaze Firing: Glazes must be properly applied, wiped clean from bases, and free from drips or oversaturation.
All public firing submissions require a completed Studio Firing Drop-Off Form prior to drop-off.
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Step 2: Dropping Off Your Work
When delivering your ceramics to RTC:
• Meet with Richard or a studio technician to have your work checked in.
• All pieces must be clearly labeled. Unlabeled items will not be accepted or fired.
• Weigh your pieces, settle payment, and place them on the designated firing shelf. (Bisque/Glaze Firing: $12/kg).
• Bring your own box or container for safe transportation.
Drop off during studio hours.
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Step 3: Picking Up Your Work
Once your pieces are fired and ready, Richard or a studio technician will notify you via your provided contact details.
Before collection: Please arrange a suitable pick-up time.
Storage Policy: Finished pieces must be collected within 3 weeks of notification. Unclaimed work may be discarded after this period.
Studio Firing Terms & Conditions
Before dropping off your pieces, please take a moment to review our firing policies. These guidelines help us ensure a safe, efficient, and fair firing process for everyone using the studio.
Liability & Responsibility
RTC is not responsible for loss, damage, or unexpected outcomes of submitted pieces.
The studio reserves the right to refuse firing any item deemed unsuitable or likely to cause kiln damage.
Firing Eligibility & Requirements
Our standard firing is stoneware at 1265°C +20 min soak (achieving a 1280°C Cone 10 oxidation).
Studio glazes are available for purchase upon request.
All glazed pieces must be placed on a protective biscuit tile.
Outside glazes (1265°C + 20 min soak-compatible) are permitted, but:
Makers must provide their own protective biscuit tile ("cookie").
Please inform us in advance if you plan to use outside glazes. We need to confirm the firing criteria before accepting your work.
Any glaze mishaps (e.g., drips or kiln shelf damage) are the maker’s responsibility.
No wet or damp work – all items must be fully dried before submission.
All pieces must have a clear maker’s mark. Unmarked work will not be accepted or fired.
We do NOT fire:
Feeney's Buff Raku Trachyte (BRT).
Wild clay (unless tested and approved for stoneware firing).
Clay bodies with heavy iron inclusions.
Excessively thick pieces or items containing trapped air.
Damage & Associated Fees
To avoid additional charges, please clean up any glaze drips, spills, or oversaturation (especially underneath) before submission.
Minor kiln shelf damage (glaze drips, rough clay use): $50/shelf maintenance fee.
Major kiln shelf damage (requiring replacement): $250 per shelf.
Kiln interior damage: Fees assessed by RTC and an external kiln technician based on severity.
Firing Turnaround & Priority
Standard turnaround time: Approximately 10 business days, subject to studio scheduling.
Student class work takes priority in the firing schedule.
Richard or our studio technician will notify you once pieces are ready. Please organise a pickup appointment prior to your visit.
Storage Policy: Completed pieces must be collected within 3 weeks. Unclaimed work will be recycled or discarded.
By submitting the Studio Firing Drop-Off Form (linked below), you acknowledge and agree to the terms outlined here.